By Florenda Corpuz
TOKYO – The Philippines and Japan elevated their relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership following a summit between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on May 28, marking a new phase in bilateral cooperation as the two countries celebrate 70 years of normalization of diplomatic relations.
Announcing the upgrade after their meeting at the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace, Marcos Jr. said the move reflects the expanding scope of cooperation between the two countries and their shared commitment to addressing regional and global challenges.
“As we commemorate the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between our two countries, I am pleased to announce that we have elevated our relationship from a Strengthened Strategic Partnership to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” he said during a joint press conference.
Takaichi said the new framework reflects the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation as like-minded partners despite changes in the international environment.
“This reflects the determination of both countries to continue strengthening our ties as like-minded countries in a sustained and multilayered manner without being swayed by changes in the international environment,” she said.
The two leaders agreed to expand cooperation in areas including security, economic partnership, energy resilience, maritime affairs and emerging technologies. They also announced the start of negotiations on an agreement covering the protection of classified military information and on the delimitation of maritime boundaries.
The Philippines and Japan also signed a convention on the avoidance of double taxation and agreed to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, health care, artificial intelligence, space development and human resource development.
The summit was among the highlights of Marcos Jr.’s four-day state visit to Japan.
(Photos courtesy of PCO)
